Lawson, a 6-3 senior without a true position, is the heart of a team that has pushed its way to the top tier of the area rankings. Gordon calls Lawson a power forward because he always guards the opponent’s biggest forward.

Lawson is perhaps the toughest player for Griffith (16-4, 5-2), which has built its foundation on bone-crunching defense. He can defend, score, handle the ball, grab a rebound in traffic and post up.

A two-year starter who’s averaging 16.4 points and 6.4 rebounds, Lawson appreciates the responsibility of being a leader. He doesn’t hold anything back.

“I like to show my excitement,” he said. “I was a leader last year, too. I try to help the team out, make sure everyone is involved and make sure my teammates are doing what they are supposed to be doing.”

Gordon said Lawson’s fearlessness is refreshing.

“He doesn’t always make the right decision, but I don’t mind,” Gordon said. “He’s the guy at the end of the game who isn’t afraid to take the big shot.”